Why Matthew Stafford will be the best test for the Baltimore Ravens defense in 2023
The Baltimore Ravens' defense is elite, and there is no doubt about it. One of the big reasons is because they have so much depth, but also, the team has had a few things go their way in terms of the quarterback they faced.
Matthew Stafford wil give the Baltimore Ravens defense a test in week 14
They were fortunate to face C.J. Stroud at home in week one of his first start. They happened to have a former Michigan defensive coordinator as their current defensive coordinator, and the Texans' line was beat up. Then, they beat Joe Burrow, but he was clearly playing through a calf injury in what ended up being an awful season for him,
They played well against Gardner Minshew and Kenny Pickett, but then Ryan Tannehill got hurt, and they faced Malik Willis. After that, it was Jared Goff, Joshua Dobbs, and Geno Smith.
They got a test against Deshaun Watson and lost before an injury to Joe Burrow stopped them from having a real test again. The Chargers are supposed to be a test, but their skill players are banged up, and the offense does not look good and has not looked good all year.
On Sunday, the excuses about the quarterback and the situation will end. Matthew Stafford is not only arguably the best quarterback they have faced all year, but they are getting him in the best circumstances that he has had all season.
The Rams' offensive line, as well as skill players Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Cooper Kupp, have been healthy for four games. The Rams are 3-1 in those games, with two wins over the Cardinals, a win over the Browns, and a loss to the Eagles.
What is interesting to note is that Matthew Stafford has five games with a passer rating over 90. One was week one; the four others were when he had his full group of weapons.
Ranking top 15 players on Ravens defense. dark. Next. Ranking top 15 players on Ravens defense
His last two games have been the best two of his season. He has ten touchdowns to one interception in the four games with that group and has seven touchdowns to one in the last two weeks. In that span, the Rams' offense ranks seventh in EPA per play.
The Ravens' defense needs a test like this before the playoffs start. The Rams are healthy, they are playing their best football, and now the get a rested Ravens defense. This is the biggest test of the year for both units.